Although the hybrid cars started being produced commercially in 1997 with the Toyota Prius, the first hybrid car, “Mixte” was created back in 1902, by Ferdinand Porsche. Since the modern world is now aware that we are running out of petroleum, the utility and popularity of hybrid cars are increasing now. Unlike normal vehicles, hybrid cars can run on rechargeable batteries as well as the traditional gasoline engine and both of these systems are present inside a hybrid car. The batteries ensure that the vehicle uses less fuel as they take over from the fuel engine whenever possible. This hybrid system also reduces air pollution from the engine exhausts (sometimes by as much as by 90%). Now, what bothers most people who are considering the advantages and disadvantages of a hybrid car is the initial cost. It must be admitted that hybrid cars are quite a bit more expensive than normal cars, but if you think about it as a long term investment then you may actually end up saving money. Hybrid cars are extremely fuel efficient as they require roughly one third of what a normal car with only a gasoline engine would require. The savings alone should be enough to make up for the extra price which you would have to pay upfront, but that is just one element of the economic advantages you would enjoy if you choose a hybrid car. Another important fact worth noting is that there are various auto insurance programs which actually give significant discounts if you own a hybrid car.

The parts of a hybrid car are usually very durable but even the most expensive parts can be replaced for free if they start malfunctioning because the warranty on these cars are usually valid for a long time. Besides, if you use a hybrid car, you are likely to get tax credits from the US government. Even when you compare the resell value of the conventional cars and the hybrid cars, you will find that the latter has an upper hand in this case also. It was doubted earlier that the hybrid cars cannot match up to the levels of speed that a conventional engine based car can reach, but recently these claims are not held as significant because if required, the modern hybrid cars can reach incredible speeds as well. Although hybrid cars have always been greener, quieter and more fuel efficient than conventional cars, they are becoming even more suited to the needs of the time. The problem about the expensive battery pack replacement has been addressed now with the 38 module system. It allows you to change one battery at a time and thus it does not necessitate changing the entire lot at once; which can be quite expensive. The concept of the hydrogen-oxygen fuel cells are also being put into research and once this technology is incorporated into the hybrid cars; a new level would be reached.

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